At Oak Crest in Bedminster, NJ, junior campers engage in a wide array of activities, such as archery, mountain biking, lacrosse, high ropes, BMX, skatepark, pioneering with ‘Camper vs. Wild,’ and more. Their schedule combines diverse athletic and creative pursuits, including instructional swim and the climbing tower. A distinctive benefit for junior campers is the Late Night program, extending their stay for a special dinner, additional swim time, extra games, a unique event, and a twilight campfire complete with delicious S’mores.
Our Junior program, situated on full-size fields in Bedminster, New Jersey, offers a diverse array of athletic activities. Weekly schedules encompass soccer, football, tennis, lacrosse, archery, basketball, hockey, and more. In addition, juniors can immerse themselves in our Skate Park and Mountain Biking Program, led by Athletic Specialists who provide skill instruction and follow-up games to reinforce newly acquired skills. Oak Crest counselors actively engage, collaborating with specialists to create meaningful success opportunities for campers.
At the Junior level, we introduce League Play, where groups participate in soccer, handball, football, and dodgeball. These activities and opponents rotate on a weekly basis, ensuring a dynamic and competitive experience for our campers.
Your child will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a variety of artistic activities led by experienced art instructors in climate-controlled classrooms located in Bedminster, NJ. Our campers engage in a weekly rotation of activities that includes ceramics, music, mad science, cooking, drama, nature exploration, ‘Camper vs. Wild,’ dance, digital photography, jewelry making, computer activities, and more.
Additionally, all Junior Girl groups participate in a special showcase – Showcrest, an annual extravaganza that combines dance and drama. This significant production occurs during the sixth week of camp at a local venue in the evening, complete with professional sound and lighting, providing a memorable and artistic experience for our young campers.
At Oak Crest, our Learn to Swim Program is a cornerstone of our camp experience. Our state-of-the-art aquatic facility in Bedminster, NJ, is truly exceptional. The 3rd Grade Juniors benefit from our recently constructed, state-of-the-art 12,000-square-foot Aquatic Complex designed exclusively for 3-8 year-olds, while the 4th grade Juniors swim in our Gigantic Pool, featuring eight 25-meter lanes. Both facilities provide shallow water areas, allowing us to start all swimmers in standing depth and gradually progress them into deeper water as their skills improve.
Each morning, Juniors participate in a 40-minute swim lesson led by certified swim instructors, with group counselors offering additional support. Our swim lessons focus on skill levels rather than age, ensuring that swimmers of all abilities are appropriately challenged. Our instructors receive annual training and certification, adhering to American Red Cross standards and drawing from over 25 years of practical experience in teaching children how to swim. In the afternoon, Juniors have the opportunity for free swim in the pools.
At Oak Crest in Bedminster, NJ, we recognize that mastering the art of riding a bicycle is a significant childhood milestone. Our campers have the perfect environment to achieve this milestone thanks to our newly established Bicycle Village. This facility boasts a 1/4 mile training course, a state-of-the-art pump track, and a mountain bike preparation trail. Beyond promoting independence, cycling imparts valuable lessons in balance, posture control, coordination, and the development of motor skills. Our experienced instructors offer personalized attention, helping novice riders gain the confidence they need. As campers progress, they can take part in our dynamic Mountain Biking Program, where Oak Crest provides appropriately sized bikes and helmets for their enjoyment and continued skill development.
In Bedminster, NJ, our Junior campers at Oak Crest are presented with the exciting opportunity to experience all of our Ropes Courses. Starting with the Confidence Course, positioned 5 feet above the ground, campers can familiarize themselves with belaying and navigate various elements that mirror those found in our more challenging High Ropes Course. The Climbing Tower offers two distinct rock walls, a thrilling 200-yard zip line, and the exhilarating Giant Swing. The High Ropes course takes the adventure to new heights with additional rock walls and mid-air challenges.
To ensure the safety of our campers, our ropes courses undergo thorough safety inspections and certification before each season, conducted by the same company responsible for their construction. Furthermore, our certified ropes instructors, who guide groups through the courses, perform daily inspections to uphold ongoing safety standards.
Located in Bedminster, NJ, during the Choice period at Oak Crest, campers have the freedom to select their preferred activity for the week. Each week, campers can explore a new activity from a constantly updated list. In addition to a wide range of athletic and creative options, our Junior campers also have the opportunity to participate in our annual Drama Production or join a specific Dance routine. This annual event is known as Showcrest, offering campers a chance to showcase their talents and creativity.
At our camp in Bedminster, NJ, campers engage in collaborative, communicative, and supportive activities within their assigned groups throughout the day. Our counselors play an active role in fostering an inclusive atmosphere, encouraging respectful interactions and effective communication among both campers and staff. Through shared experiences, these groups cultivate strong bonds and form lasting friendships. Oak Crest maintains a steadfast commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, placing a strong emphasis on creating a nurturing environment where children can develop the emotional and social skills necessary for lifelong success.
